An automobile consists of a myriad of parts and systems. All these components and systems work collectively to enable a vehicle to perform its functions. Each component has a specific function without which vehicles would not move or be fully effective. Among the many car components, a radiator holds its place as an integral part of the system. A radiator regulates the car engine temperature and helps avoid several problems, such as engine overheating.
We will do a detailed guide on the car engine radiator, learn about its components, and see how it functions to ensure a better driving experience.
Car Radiator Function
A radiator is an integral part of the car’s cooling system. Although there are different types of engine cooling systems available, a radiator can be found in all of them. The main function of a radiator is to keep the engine cool.
To enable a radiator to perform its function effectively, other parts such as the fan clutch, spur line and water pump also come into play. Each of these components plays its part in assisting the radiator, thus helping the radiator to keep the car’s engine cool.
How Does a Radiator Work
The Internal Combustion Engine (ICE) burns fuel to enable vehicle functions. The burning of fuel releases heat energy that can be harmful to the engine. Therefore, heat must be eliminated from the engine to avoid any sort of damage.
The thermostat, located at the front of the engine, detects additional heat. The radiator then releases water and coolant that are sent to the engine to absorb the heat. Once the liquid is done picking up all excess heat, it goes back to the radiator.
The radiator cools down the heat by blowing air taken from outside the vehicle. A radiator houses thin metal fins that allow an easy escape to heat from within the engine. Additionally, the fan in the radiator comes into play for helping the metal fins push the heat out. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the signs of a bad radiator fan.
Where is the Radiator Located in a Car
Generally, the radiator is located in the front bonnet near the engine. However, some vehicles have engines in the rear end and in these cases, it can be found on the back side beside the engine. A location close to the engine is necessary to increase the radiator’s efficiency in regulating temperature.
Components of a Radiator
For an effective temperature regulation job, several car radiator components come into play along with the radiator. Faults in the components can lead to problems like water leaking from the radiator among others. Therefore, it is important to ensure the timely maintenance of all components.
Detailed below are the major components of a radiator:
CORE
The core is the largest component of a radiator. It contains metal blocks that house the thin metal fins. These fins assist in removing the heat from the engine. Moreover, the core is the area where hot liquids release heat and are cooled down before going through the process again.
INLET AND OUTLET TANKS
Located in the radiator head, these tanks are responsible for transporting coolant in and out of the radiator. The inlet tank transports hot liquids towards the radiator. Once cooled, these liquids are transferred back to the engine via the outlet tank.
PRESSURE CAP
The pressure cap works as a seal for the cooling system to keep the pressure intact. The pressure is necessary to keep the coolant from boiling. Apart from this, a pressure cap helps run the system efficiently.
As the component plays such a crucial role, it is important to know how to change the radiator cap to avoid any additional damage and expenses.
RADIATOR HOSES
These hoses connect the outlet and inlet tanks to the engine and the radiator. They help transport the coolant through the engine. Faulty or leaky hoses can lead to engine overheating. Therefore, if you come across a leaking radiator hose, get it fixed at the earliest.
Radiator Failure
There are several causes of car overheating and the risk is higher when a faulty radiator is involved. With a faulty radiator, the chances and frequency of engine overheating can increase significantly. This can happen for several reasons like issues with the thermostat, mechanical fan or pressure cap.
Fortunately, there are some symptoms to identify a radiator failure before it causes more damage to the engine. Let’s go through the symptoms in detail:
LEAKING COOLANT
Cracks can appear on a radiator either by normal wear and tear or any damage caused to it. Either way, cracks can lead to coolant leaking from the vehicle. The coolant keeps on dropping underneath the vehicle. This can happen when the vehicle is parked or is in motion. Low coolant levels are a clear indication of a failing radiator.
SLUDGE AND DISCOLOURED COOLANT
Debris and rust from a faulty radiator can turn the green or yellow coolant dark and rusty. Additionally, this may turn the coolant thicker and form sludge which may prevent the coolant from performing its function.
DEFORMED OR DAMAGED FINS
Bent or damaged fins can block the airflow to the radiator. Excessive water pressure during washing or gravel hitting may cause damage to the fins.
OVERHEATING
If your car overheats and doesn’t start, it may indicate a failing radiator. A car overheating means the radiator is not able to perform its primary function which is cooling the engine.
This is everything you need to know about a car radiator system. It is an integral part of a car as it helps regulate engine temperature. Any fault in the radiator may lead to engine problems. Therefore, it is important to keep an eye out for bad radiator symptoms and get the problem fixed promptly.
Additionally, radiators, like other components, are prone to damage and can sometimes cause leaks. Luckily, there are some effective ways to fix car radiator leaks if the problem arises.
Moreover, if your vehicle encounters frequent radiator problems, the issue may lie elsewhere in the engine. It is a viable option to go for a pre-owned vehicle. Browse through these used cars for sale in the UAE and select from a wide variety of vehicles listed.
Stay tuned to dubizzle’s auto blog for information about major car components and more.
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